MEP Project Manager – Job Roles & Responsibilities
1. Project Planning & Coordination
- Develop complete MEP project plans, timelines, manpower schedules, and resource allocation.
- Coordinate with clients, consultants, main contractors, and authorities for design approvals and project milestones.
- Review IFC drawings, tender documents, and specifications to ensure compliance with project requirements.
2. Technical & Engineering Oversight
- Lead the MEP design review process and ensure technical accuracy and constructability.
- Verify load calculations, equipment selections, shop drawings, and material submittals.
- Ensure all MEP systems (HVAC, Electrical, Plumbing, Fire Fighting, ELV) comply with UAE standards and local authority regulations (DEWA, DM, DCD, etc.).
3. Site Execution & Supervision
- Manage and monitor MEP site execution to ensure work is completed on time and within quality standards.
- Coordinate between civil and MEP teams to avoid clashes and ensure smooth progress.
- Conduct regular site inspections and resolve technical issues immediately.
4. Budgeting & Cost Control
- Prepare and manage project budgets, BOQs, and cost estimates.
- Review supplier and subcontractor quotations and finalize MEP procurement.
- Track project costs and implement cost-saving strategies without compromising quality.
5. Project Documentation & Reporting
- Maintain complete documentation: progress reports, variation requests, method statements, and RFI logs.
- Provide weekly and monthly progress updates to senior management and clients.
- Ensure that all testing, commissioning, and handover documentation is prepared accurately.
6. Health, Safety, and Compliance
- Enforce safety standards on site and ensure compliance with UAE HSE regulations.
- Conduct regular toolbox talks and coordinate with the HSE team for audits.
- Report and resolve any safety violations immediately.
7. Stakeholder & Client Management
- Act as the primary MEP point of contact for clients and consultants.
- Attend project meetings and present MEP progress, challenges, and action plans.
- Ensure customer satisfaction and positive communication throughout the project lifecycle.
8. Testing, Commissioning & Handover
- Oversee testing and commissioning for all MEP systems.
- Ensure defects are closed and final inspections are successfully completed.
- Deliver complete handover documents, O&M manuals, as-built drawings, and warranties.
9. Leadership & Team Management
- Supervise engineers, supervisors, draftsmen, and technicians.
- Assign tasks, monitor productivity, and mentor junior staff.
- Ensure discipline, professionalism, and high performance within the MEP team.
Skills
Key Skills of an MEP Project Manager
1. Technical Skills (Core MEP Knowledge)
- Strong understanding of HVAC, Electrical, Plumbing, Fire Fighting & ELV systems
- Ability to read, review, and approve MEP drawings, IFCs, and specifications
- Knowledge of UAE codes and authority regulations (DEWA, DCD, DM, ADDC, ADCD, SEWA, etc.)
- Proficiency in load calculations, equipment sizing, and value engineering
- Experience with testing, commissioning, and handover procedures
2. Project Management Skills
- Strong project planning using MS Project / Primavera
- Expert in managing timelines, resources, and budgets
- Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously
- Skilled in risk management and contingency planning
- Strong coordination with civil, architectural, and specialist teams
3. Leadership & Team Management
- Ability to lead engineers, site supervisors, and technicians
- Effective delegation, monitoring, and performance management
- Conflict resolution and team motivation
- Strong decision-making and problem-solving abilities
4. Communication & Client Handling
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to manage client, consultant, and main contractor relationships
- Skills in professional reporting, presentations, and correspondence
- Ability to handle technical meetings and negotiations
5. Commercial & Contractual Skills
- Understanding of contract terms, variations, and claims
- Cost control, BOQ management, and procurement knowledge
- Ability to evaluate vendor/subcontractor quotations
- Experience with commercial negotiations and cost optimization
6. Quality & Safety Management
- Knowledge of QA/QC procedures, inspection requests, and method statements
- Understanding of HSE regulations and safe work practices
- Ability to ensure compliance with project quality standards
- Experience managing audits and closing NCRs
7. Software & Digital Skills
- MS Project / Primavera P6 (project scheduling)
- AutoCAD (reviewing drawings)
- Revit / BIM (preferred but not mandatory)
- MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
- ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, Zoho, etc. depending on the company)
8. Soft Skills
- Time management & multitasking
- Analytical and critical thinking
- Adaptability and stress handling
- Attention to detail
- Strong work ethic and professional integrity